What are “scheduled substances” in pharmacy?

Scheduled substances refer to drugs that are classified based on their potential for abuse and the risk of dependency they pose to users. This categorization is primarily used for controlled substances, which are regulated under various federal and state laws to mitigate the risks associated with substance abuse.

The scheduling system consists of different categories, ranging from Schedule I substances, which have a high potential for abuse and no accepted medical use, to Schedule V substances, which have a lower potential for abuse. This classification helps healthcare professionals, including pharmacists, understand the handling, prescribing, and dispensing regulations associated with these substances, ensuring that they are used safely and appropriately in medical settings.

Understanding the classification of scheduled substances is crucial for pharmacy practice, as it directly impacts inventory management, patient counseling, and compliance with legal requirements regarding the control of medications that can potentially lead to abuse and dependency.